Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has urged Cardinal John Onaiyekan to ignore the criticisms directed at him by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over his comments on the state of the nation.
George said Onaiyekan should remain focused on speaking truth to power and advising the government on how to address Nigeria’s challenges.
Reacting to the controversy surrounding the Cardinal’s comments, George questioned the attacks against the Catholic cleric, arguing that the issues raised by Onaiyekan affect Nigerians regardless of their religion.
“Look at the way Nyesom Wike attacked Cardinal Onaiyekan. Does that make any sense to an average Nigerian?” George asked.
He criticised claims by government officials that Onaiyekan was speaking only for Catholics or was acting in support of the opposition.
According to George, the economic hardship and other challenges confronting Nigerians affect Christians, Muslims and people of other faiths alike.
He urged Onaiyekan to draw inspiration from the late South African Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who was known for speaking out against injustice and government policies during his lifetime.
George maintained that genuine Christian leaders would continue to speak out regardless of intimidation or criticism.
He also compared the current controversy to the biblical account of Jesus Christ and Barabbas, arguing that attacking those who speak against injustice is similar to choosing Barabbas over Christ.
“I urge the Cardinal to continue to hold the faith and speak the truth without any fear. He should keep advising the government on what to do to make Nigeria great,” George said.
The former PDP chieftain also defended Onaiyekan’s standing within the Catholic Church, noting that he is a Cardinal and a member of the conclave responsible for electing the Pope.
He therefore advised politicians and their supporters to show respect for the elderly cleric.
George further disclosed that he had also been subjected to attacks by individuals associated with Wike, describing the situation as politically motivated.
He maintained that political disagreements should not lead to disrespect for elders or religious leaders who express their views on matters affecting the country.
The controversy follows recent exchanges between government officials and Catholic leaders after Onaiyekan expressed concerns over the state of the Nigerian economy and the hardship confronting citizens.
George’s intervention adds to the growing debate over the role of religious leaders in speaking on governance and whether criticism from the clergy should be viewed as political opposition.
